Boat Trailer Safety and Launching Tips
September 2019
When towing a boat, it is important to secure the boat before driving away. Investing in the correct winch to pull the boat onto the trailer is important. There are lots of options - powered or manual.
Are you new to boating? If so, consider some practice at your ramp - or any ramp to improve your backing. Rolling down both lanes of a dual lane ramp isn’t a good idea.
Trailer thefts from boat ramp car parks are common. Make sure your is secured - we have put this guide together for security devices.
AT THE RAMP
When launching
- Don’t forget to check the bungs are in!
- If you have a SUV consider popping the back for better visibility when you back down.
- Don’t forget to remove the rear strop before backing down.
Important:
- Beware of tides and know where the end of the ramp is.
- Handbrakes aren’t enough - your car needs to be in gear too when parked for launching
When retrieving
- Put the chain on when driving up the ramp.
- Don’t forget the safety flag!
In this guide, we will cover the basic trailer towing rules and some trailer towing tips.
LIGHT MOTOR VEHICLES
- On a learner or restricted car licence (Class 1) you can tow a trailer but the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 4500kg.
- On a full licence the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 6000kg.
SAFE TOWING GUIDELINES
- Refer to the car manufacturers recommendations before towing a trailer, in particular the weight limits recommended.
- Refer to the loading limits for the tow bar you are using.
- Be aware that overloading and uneven loading of car trailers can seriously affect a car’s handling. Additional gear you stow for holidays etc should be over or just forward of the axel(s).
- You must be able to see behind that old trailer or vehicle. if you can see behind with your rearview mirrors, you may need to fit a special mirror.